TheComputerMaster

Star Topology

The star network is a centralized network, because each node is connected to a centralized hub (switch). When a node sends data to another node, the data needs to go through the centralized hub. Usually this network uses UTP cable, but if higher speeds are needed, fiber optic can be used.

The advantages of this network are that you can easily extend it and add more nodes after it has been set up. If one cable or one node is down and not working, the network still works. You can easily detect which node or cable is malfunctioning. But on the other hand, it has some disadvantages too for example it uses much more cable than other linear networks. If the centralized hub is malfunctioning, the entire network is down.

Related Posts

• Network Topology - Token Ring
• Network Topology - Linear Bus
• Network Topology - Mesh and Partial Mesh
• Network Topology - Extended Star

This entry was posted on Saturday, November 1st, 2008 at 14:22 pm and is filed under Networking. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.